Indiana American Water asks for rate increases
Contributed By:The 411 News
Average monthly bill hike nears $15
Customers of the Indiana American Water Company will see their bills increase in 2019 and 2020 if the utility is granted a rate increase by state water utility regulators. Residential customers using 5,000 gallons per month could see a $15 increase.
The water company recently filed for the rate increase to pay for infrastructure investments, including the replacement of aging water distribution lines throughout its service territories. IAWC announced earlier this year it would replace lead service lines for residential customers across the state.
The Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor, the state agency representing consumer interests in rate cases before the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission will hold public meetings in November, in Gary and Seymour.
IAWC provides service to approximately 302,000 customers in more than 50 Indiana communities. It is a subsidiary of Voorhees, New Jersey-based American Water Inc. The utility’s proposal would raise rates in two phases, increasing its total annual operating revenues by $38.8 million.
For most residential customers using 5,000 gallons per month, the monthly bill would rise from $43.70 to $46.81 in July 2019, then to $50.34 in July 2020. These amounts include fire protection surcharges. The utility’s proposal would raise its flat, monthly residential customer charge from $14.23 to $20.17 in 2019 and to $22.35 in 2020.
In its filing, Indiana American Water has proposed improvements to treatment plants in Richmond and Muncie. Additional projects include a new water treatment plant in Noblesville, new disinfection technology at other plants, new meters, hydrants, and valves, new security systems, pumping station upgrades, and painting and rehabilitation of tanks.
The IURC public hearings are scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2018 in Seymour (Seymour High School Auditorium, 1350 W. 2ndSt.) and Monday, Nov. 26, 2018 in Gary (City Hall Common Council Chambers, 401 Broadway). Each hearing starts at 6:00 p.m. local time.
Consumers are encouraged to arrive by 5:45 p.m. for an overview of field hearing procedures and the rate case process.
Consumers who wish to submit written comments for the case record may do so via the OUCC’s website at www.in.gov/oucc/2361.htm, via email at uccinfo@oucc.IN.gov, or by mail at: Consumer Services Staff, Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor, 115 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 South, Indianapolis, IN 46204
The OUCC needs to receive all written consumer comments no later than December 14, 2018 so that it can consider them in preparing its testimony and file them with the Commission to be included in the case’s formal evidentiary record.
Comments should include the consumer’s name, mailing address, and a reference to “IURC Cause No. 45142.” Do not include account numbers or other sensitive information.
Consumers with questions about submitting written comments can contact the OUCC’s consumer services staff toll-free at 1-888-441-2494.
Story Posted:10/26/2018
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